Dr. Alan Stern retired from private practice in 2023 after what he calls "every mistake in the book," including clinical, financial, and personal missteps. He recovered with help from consultants, therapists, and a peak performance coach. Eventually Stern built a coaching and speaking career based on what he learned. His company is called Better Richer Stronger, a name he says reflects the goal, not a finished state.
In this episode of The DrBicuspid.com Podcast, host Kevin Henry talks with Stern about where dentistry is headed in 2027 and beyond, and it isn't a gentle forecast.
Dr. Alan Stern.
Stern points to artificial intelligence, robotics, and rising hyper-regulation as forces already reshaping the profession alongside growing use of paraprofessionals and dental therapists to help close access gaps.
He also takes direct aim at a word he can't stand: "provider," which he argues has quietly devalued dentists and hygienists into interchangeable line items for third-party payers.
Stern's real focus is what practices do with that disruption. The docs who prepare rather than panic, he says, have an unusual opportunity -- reconnecting with why they entered dentistry in the first place, building "mental fitness" rather than waiting for a crisis to force "mental health," and restructuring practices so paraprofessionals handle more routine care under supervision while doctors and hygienists focus on complex treatment.
He envisions dental assistants moving into more hands-on patient care and hygienists shifting toward health coaching and treatment planning alongside doctors.
Stern's practical starting point: Build a community of caring instead of a traditional staff that is anchored by a shared mission statement. Stern recommends pairing this focus with a simple daily ritual: ending each morning huddle by asking, "Whose life will we make better today?"
Currently, Stern is preparing for a new full-day program, "Cracking the Code for Successful Outcomes and Sustainable Careers in a Changing World," launching October 10 in Tampa, FL. Learn more about the workshop.
Stern can be reached through his Facebook page, Better Richer Stronger, or by email at [email protected].
Listen to the full conversation below.
